Old-School Squash Casserole

This Old-School Squash Casserole is a classic comfort food that brings a nostalgic taste of home cooking to your table. Featuring tender yellow squash combined with vibrant red bell peppers and onions, this dish is enriched with a creamy blend of mayonnaise and sour cream, then topped with a buttery, golden layer of Ritz crackers.

It’s an effortless yet satisfying casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering a blend of savory flavors and a crispy topping that everyone will love. Enjoy this timeless recipe that’s as simple to make as it is delicious!

Old-School Squash Casserole

Ingredients

4 small Yellow Squash, sliced

1 Red Bell Pepper, diced

1 small onion, diced

¼ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup Sour Cream

¾ cup crumbled Ritz Crackers

1 cup Cheddar Cheese, grated or shredded

½ tsp Salt

¼ tsp Black Pepper

2 eggs

Instructions

FIRST STEP:

Set and preheat the oven to 350*

Lightly spray a 9×9 or 8×8 baking pan

In a large skillet over medium high heat melt 1 tbsp of Butter

Add in the sliced Squash, onion and bell pepper to the skillet

Stirring often and cooking for 10 minutes

Remove the skillet from the heat and season with salt and pepper if desired

SECOND STEP:

In a bowl combine the eggs, mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheese

Stir the egg mixture into the squash mix

Transfer the blend to the prepared baking pan

In another bowl combine the crushed crackers with 1 tbsp melted butter

Sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs on top of the squash mix

THIRD STEP:

Place the baking pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden brown

Enjoy!

Notes:

Squash Selection: If you prefer a different type of squash, zucchini can be substituted for yellow squash. Adjust the cooking time slightly if the slices are thicker.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or corn for extra flavor and texture. Just ensure they are pre-cooked and drained if needed.

Cheese Options: While Cheddar cheese is classic, you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a blend for different flavor profiles.

Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or reduce the amount of mayonnaise.

Cracker Topping: If you want a gluten-free option, substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Butter Alternatives: You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute for the cracker topping if you have dietary restrictions.

Seasoning: Adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs like thyme or basil can enhance the flavor.

White Bean Soup With Lemon And Orzo (Golden Glow Soup)

Buttermilk Sweet Potato Pie (Camotes Enmielados)

Cóctel de Camarones (Shrimp Cocktail Recipe)

Casserole Pan: A 9×9 or 8×8 baking pan works best, but you can use a similar-sized dish. If using a larger pan, adjust the baking time to ensure the casserole is set and golden.

Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information:

YIELD: 6 SERVING SIZE: 1

Amount Per Serving:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of squash?

Yes, you can substitute yellow squash with zucchini or a mix of both.

Just adjust the cooking time slightly if the squash slices are thicker or thinner.

What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

You can use other types of crackers, bread crumbs, or even panko for the topping.

If using bread crumbs, you may want to add a bit more melted butter for a similar texture.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance.

Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator.

Bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping.

Ensure that the mayonnaise, sour cream, and any other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I substitute the Cheddar cheese with another type of cheese?

Absolutely. You can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a cheese blend.

Just be aware that the flavor profile will change slightly.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbly.

You can also insert a knife or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean if the casserole is fully set.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole.

Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Bake as directed, but you may need to add extra time.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or additional mayonnaise for a similar creamy texture.

Can I use a different type of pepper?

Yes, you can use other types of peppers, like green bell pepper or even hot peppers for a bit of spice.

Adjust the quantity based on the type and heat level of the pepper used.

What should I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

Consider serving it with a simple green salad, roasted chicken, or grilled meats for a complete meal.